Forest, Equarius Hotel, Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore

Sunday brunch in Singapore often provokes thoughts of extreme indulgence – live music, oysters, champagne, white gloved service and a hefty bill at the end - not something most can enjoy frequently and most likely not with a family. Forest, at Equarius Hotel however, offers an affordable alternative.  For those wanting value for money without the added extravagances, and a pleasurable tummy filling Sunday, Forest’s weekend brunch provides just that.

Named after Celebrity Chef Sam Leong’s wife, Forest, the restaurant mimics her name with giant tree sculptures sprawling up to and across the ceiling. Enormous glass windows overlook exuberant lawns inviting a roll in the grass or a skip around the garden. Pebbles, tiles, carpets and blinds form a collage of textures and neutral tones adding to the light bright feeling.

A simple line up of brunchy foods includes: fresh seafood and sushi; breads and cheeses; Western finger bites and salads; Chinese hot items and; a colourful collection of desserts. Efficient and friendly servers are there to help, but keep their distance allowing you to partake in the spread without too much interruption.

Our brunch was spent entertained by the delightful celebrity chef, Sam Leong. This adorable character divulged humorous tales from, what he dubs, the “Chinese mafia kitchen,” told of his whirlwind career and, let us in on some changes in pace he has begun to put in place and plans for the future.

Moving away from the hectic and time consuming role of executive chef and, reducing TV show and other commitments, Sam has shifted towards consultancy work and is dedicating more time to his family. Himself, and wife Forest, now empty nesters for a few years, conduct cooking classes together. Saturdays you can partake in a small group class (no more than eight students) at Forest, Equarius Hotel. A corner of the restaurant is walled off with decorative glass walls and, doors opened up to the outdoor patio leading out to rolling green grass. Cheerful setting and newly gained skills aside, I can assure you the class will be highly engaging with Chef Sam at the helm.

For cooking class and/or restaurant reservations contact the Equarious Hotel at Resorts World Sentosa. Sunday Brunch is served at Forest from 11:30am to 4pm with the last order from the kitchen taken at 3:30pm, and is priced at $58++ for adults and $28++ for children.

Reason to visit:Good value Sunday brunch without the added extravagances; a chance to spend a few hours with the engaging and charming Chef Sam Leong.

Equarius Hotel

Resort World Sentosa

8 Sentosa Gateway

Singapore 098269

+65 9672 4221